Biologics Process Development Scientist

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 103,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Career development

Competitive benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Biologics Process Development Scientist to join a cutting-edge biopharma team in Kimberley, Northern Cape. The role focuses on developing and optimizing upstream and downstream processes for biologics, with emphasis on scale-up and technology transfer.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD or MSc in a related field and has 4–6 years of experience in biologics process development. Hybrid work and collaboration with diverse teams across analytical, formulation, and

Qualifications

• PhD or MSc in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• 4–6 years in biologics process development (therapeutic proteins, mAbs, vaccines).
• Hands-on experience with bioreactor operation, cell culture optimization or protein purification.
• Proficiency in analytical methods used for biologics.
• Understanding of GMP principles and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize upstream (cell culture) or downstream (purification) processes.
• Design experiments to evaluate process parameters and impact on quality/yield.
• Characterize biologics using analytical techniques (HPLC, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, MS).
• Scale-up to pilot scale and support tech transfer to manufacturing sites.
• Troubleshoot issues and improve process robustness.
• Prepare technical reports, development summaries, and regulatory docs.
• Collaborate with analytical development, formulation, and manufacturing teams.
• Stay updated on new bioprocess technologies.

Skills

Problem solving

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

PhD or MSc in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or Molecular Biology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge biotechnology company focused on developing novel biologic therapeutics, is seeking a talented Biologics Process Development Scientist to join their innovative team in **Kimberley, Northern Cape**. This role is central to the development and optimization of robust, scalable manufacturing processes for therapeutic proteins and antibodies. The scientist will be responsible for upstream or downstream process development, characterization, and technology transfer activities. This hybrid position offers a dynamic work environment, combining laboratory-based research with strategic planning and collaboration. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific foundation in molecular biology, biochemistry, or bioprocess engineering, coupled with hands‑on experience in biologics manufacturing processes. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to the advancement of life‑changing therapies within a growing and scientifically driven organization. We are looking for a proactive and analytical individual who can tackle complex process development challenges. The successful candidate will play a key role in bringing innovative biologic medicines from the lab to clinical manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize upstream (cell culture) or downstream (purification) processes for biologic drug candidates.
• Design and execute experiments to evaluate critical process parameters and their impact on product quality and yield.
• Characterize biologics using various analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC, ELISA, SDS-PAGE, mass spectrometry).
• Scale‑up processes from laboratory bench to pilot scale and support technology transfer to manufacturing sites.
• Troubleshoot process‑related issues and implement solutions to improve process robustness and efficiency.
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, development summaries, and regulatory documentation.
• Collaborate with analytical development, formulation, and manufacturing teams.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and advancements in biopharmaceutical process development.
• Ensure all laboratory activities are conducted in compliance with safety and quality standards (e.g., GLP, GMP principles).
• Mentor junior scientists and provide technical guidance as needed.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in process development for biologics (therapeutic proteins, monoclonal antibodies, vaccines).
• Hands‑on experience with bioreactor operation, cell culture optimization or protein purification techniques.
• Proficiency in analytical methods commonly used for characterizing biologics.
• Understanding of GMP principles and regulatory requirements for biologics manufacturing.
• Experience with process scale‑up and technology transfer is highly desirable.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment and collaborate with cross‑functional teams in **Kimberley, Northern Cape**.
• A passion for biotechnology and advancing novel therapeutics.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a retirement savings plan.
• The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility, while opportunities for professional development and attending scientific conferences are readily available.
• Employees are part of an innovative and collaborative research culture.
• Stock options or other equity participation may be available for exceptional candidates.
• The company is committed to fostering employee growth and provides access to cutting‑edge technologies and research.
• This role offers a chance to be at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation.